The most visited national park in America, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park brings in millions of visitors each year. The park, covering a staggering 521,085.66 acres (244,741.78 in Tennessee), is home to historic sites, scenery not found anywhere else, and a rich and diverse collection of wildlife. More than 800 miles of trails wind throughout the park, and more than 400,000 hikers visit annually. Of those more than 800 miles of trails, 70 miles are part of the Appalachian Trail. There are also 342 structured maintained within the park, with 78 historic structures in five historic districts. Elevations in the park range from about 875 feet (the mouth of Abrams Creek) to 6,643 feet (Clingmans Dome). There are also more than 2,000 miles of streams. All of this is to say nothing of the diversity of flora and fauna, with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park named the Salamander Capital of the World!
So, it is no wonder that when FOX NEWS recently named the top seven most picturesque national parks to visit in the wintertime, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park made the list! Coming in at number six, the park, which spans North Carolina and Tennessee, was recognized for the Table Mountain Pines covered in snow and the abundant wildlife – including elks.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park made the list with the nation’s other most popular and beautiful parks.
FOX NEWS Top 7 Picturesque national parks to visit in the wintertime
1) Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
2) Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
3) Glacier National Park, Montana
4) Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
5) Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
6) Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina & Tennessee
7) Arches National Park, Utah
All of the parks on the list boast one-of-a-kind scenery, but the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is especially popular because of its fairly central location in the U.S. Many people around the country are just a few hours’ drive from the park, so a weekend trip is more attainable.
If you’re headed to the Smokies, be sure to find the time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg. Along with the beautiful scenery, there are plenty of opportunities for recreation. You can hike, ride bikes, go horseback riding, take a scenic drive, go fishing, go swimming, and more!